Earthquakes sign U.S. National Team defender Clarence Goodson

SAN JOSE, Calif. –The San Jose Earthquakes announced that the club has signed U.S. Men’s National Team center back Clarence Goodson pending receipt of his ITC. Per league and team policy, terms of the deals were not disclosed.

Goodson, 31, began his professional career in Major League Soccer with FC Dallas in 2004 and was selected by the Earthquakes in the 2007 MLS Expansion Draft. He joins San Jose after three-year stints with IK Start of Norway and Brondby of the Denmark. He was also a member of the United States 2010 World Cup squad in South Africa and was named to his country’s 2013 Gold Cup roster. Goodson will report straight to U.S. Men’s National Team camp for the Gold Cup before joining the Earthquakes following the conclusion of the tournament.

“We’re very excited to have Clarence join us,” said Earthquakes interim head coach Mark Watson. “He brings a lot of experience both in MLS and internationally. He has great leadership qualities and will be a fantastic addition to our back four.”

The veteran defender was the No. 7 overall pick in the 2004 MLS SuperDraft by FC Dallas. He made 74 appearances during his stay in Texas, tallying three goals and two assists. The stalwart center back earned the starting job for FC Dallas in his sophomore season and helped lead their squad to three consecutive MLS Cup Playoff appearances from 2005-07.

After being selected by the Earthquakes in 2007, Goodson opted to pursue a career in Europe, but the Quakes held his MLS rights. He signed with IK Start of Norway in January of 2008 and helped lead their squad to promotion to the country’s first division. Goodson moved to Brondby in November of 2010 and earned the captain’s armband within six months of joining his new club. He helped Brondby to a third-place finish in his first season, earning them a spot in the 2011-12 UEFA Europa League’s third qualifying round. Goodson made 59 appearances during his three seasons with Brondby.

“Clarence is a World Cup veteran with a wealth of experience in our league, overseas and at the international level,” said Earthquakes general manager John Doyle. “He should be a great addition to our team. He’s a good leader, has an excellent character and we’re happy to have him join our club.”

Away from his club career, Goodson has racked up 36 caps and three goals with the U.S. Men’s National Team. His most recent appearance was a 69-minute effort against Belgium on May 29, 2013. He also started and played 90 minutes in a 1-0 win against Costa Rica in CONCACAF World Cup qualifying on March 22, 2013 at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park.